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How to Get Rid of Slaters on Hawthorn Plant

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Updated: July 9, 2023

Introduction

Hawthorn plants are a popular choice for home gardens due to their beautiful flowers and attractive berries. However, these plants can sometimes attract unwanted pests, such as slaters. Slaters, also known as pill bugs or woodlice, are small crustaceans that feed on decaying organic matter. While they are generally harmless to plants, a large infestation can cause damage to the foliage and fruits of hawthorn plants. In this article, we will explore effective methods to get rid of slaters on hawthorn plants.

Identifying Slaters

Before learning how to eliminate slaters from your hawthorn plants, it is important to identify them correctly. Slaters are small, oval-shaped creatures with segmented bodies and a hard exoskeleton. They are typically gray or brown in color and have seven pairs of legs. Slaters are commonly found in moist environments and often seek refuge under rocks, logs, or damp soil during the day.

Prevention is Key

The best way to deal with slaters is by preventing them from infesting your hawthorn plants in the first place. Here are some preventive measures you can take:

  1. Maintain good garden hygiene: Regularly clean up fallen leaves, dead plant material, and other organic debris from around your hawthorn plants. This will reduce the availability of food sources for slaters and discourage their presence.

  2. Improve drainage: Slaters thrive in moist environments. Ensure that your garden soil has proper drainage to prevent excess moisture accumulation. This can be achieved by adding organic matter or using raised beds.

  3. Create barriers: Place a layer of coarse gravel or crushed eggshells around the base of your hawthorn plants. This creates a physical barrier that slaters find difficult to cross.

  4. Keep the garden dry: Avoid over-watering your hawthorn plants, as excessive moisture can attract slaters. Water them only when necessary and make sure the soil is able to dry out between watering sessions.

Natural Remedies

If you already have a slater infestation on your hawthorn plants, here are some natural remedies you can try:

  1. Diatomaceous earth: Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around the base of your hawthorn plants. This natural substance is made from the fossilized remains of diatoms and has sharp edges that damage the exoskeleton of slaters, ultimately leading to their demise. Be sure to reapply after rain or watering.

  2. Citrus peels: Slaters are repelled by the scent of citrus fruits. Place orange, lemon, or lime peels around your hawthorn plants to deter them. Replace the peels every few days to maintain their effectiveness.

  3. Coffee grounds: Slaters dislike the acidity of coffee grounds. Spread used coffee grounds around the base of your hawthorn plants to create an unfavorable environment for them.

  4. Beer traps: Fill shallow containers with beer and bury them partially in the ground near your hawthorn plants. Slaters are attracted to the smell of beer and will crawl into the container, eventually drowning. Empty and refill the traps regularly.

Chemical Control

If natural remedies do not provide satisfactory results, you may consider using chemical controls as a last resort. However, it is important to remember that these methods should be used sparingly and as a part of an integrated pest management approach:

  1. Insecticidal soap: Spray a solution of insecticidal soap directly onto the slaters on your hawthorn plants. This soap suffocates them by clogging their breathing pores. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully.

  2. Pesticides: If the infestation is severe and other methods have failed, you can use pesticides labeled for use against slaters. Choose a product that is specifically formulated for crustaceans and follow the instructions strictly to minimize harm to beneficial insects and the environment.

Conclusion

Slaters can be a nuisance when they infest hawthorn plants, but with proper preventive measures and effective remedies, you can keep them under control. Remember to maintain good garden hygiene, improve drainage, create barriers, and keep the garden dry to prevent slaters from becoming a problem. If natural remedies are not effective, consider using chemical controls as a last resort. By following these tips, you can ensure that your hawthorn plants remain healthy and free from slater infestations.

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